The original Cleveland Barons were members of the American Hockey League from 1937 until 1973 and were one of the league's most successful franchises. However, they were unable to compete with the major league Cleveland Crusaders of the World Hockey Association (owned my the same person, Nick Mileti), who began play in 1972. Halfway through the 1972/73 season, the Barons moved to Jacksonville, Florida. They folded after the following season.